Understanding the Role of Anaesthesiologists in Cancer Care: A Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Survey amongst Healthcare Workers: A Cross-sectional Study

Background and Aims: Evaluation of the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of healthcare workers (HCWs) towards anaesthesiology in cancer care is important to analyse the gaps and guide targeted educational curriculum and multidisciplinary interventions. The objectives are to assess the KAP of HCWs regarding anaesthesiology in cancer care and to recognise the demographic and professional factors influencing KAP scores. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted amongst HCWs at a tertiary cancer centre. A structured, validated KAP questionnaire was administered to 391 participants, of which 14 incomplete responses were excluded, yielding a final sample of 377 respondents. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, univariate linear regression to identify the predictors of KAP scores and Pearson’s correlation to evaluate the relationships between KAP domains. Results: Most participants were aged 22–30 years (84.1%), male (52.3%), graduates (60.0%) and had >2 years of work experience (51.7%). Higher knowledge scores were noted amongst post-graduates ( P = 0.052), operating theatre technicians ( P = 0.5) and radiotherapy professionals ( P = 0.676), although not significant, but participants with more than 7 years of clinical experience had significantly better scores ( P = 0.10). Nursing staff demonstrated significantly lower knowledge scores compared to technical staff ( P < 0.001). Attitude scores were comparable across most groups, while practice scores were higher amongst OT assistants ( P = 0.001). Knowledge showed a weak positive correlation with practice ( r = 0.212, P = 0.001), whereas attitude demonstrated a moderate positive correlation with practice ( P < 0.001). Conclusion: Prominent variableness in HCWs’ knowledge and perceptions of anaesthesiology in cancer care highlights the need for targeted education, more clinical postings and curriculum integration to strengthen the awareness and interdisciplinary collaboration.